This retrospective multicenter study investigates the association between the timing of computed tomography (CT) scans and short-term outcomes in adult non-traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients who achieved return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). The study includes cases from January 1, 2016, to August 31, 2024, across six branches of National Taiwan University Hospital. Data collected include demographics, Utstein variables, emergency department (ED) interventions and their timing. Primary outcomes are survival to admission, and 1-day, 3-day, and 7-day survival. Secondary outcomes focus on the timing and sequence of CT imaging and other interventions in relation to short-term prognosis and ED length of stay. The study aims to explore whether earlier CT utilization can improve outcomes in the post-resuscitation phase of care.
Adults aged 20 years or older.
Patients who experienced out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA), received resuscitative efforts in the emergency department, achieved return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), and subsequently underwent computed tomography (CT) imaging (regardless of the anatomical region scanned).
Patients with cardiac arrest due to traumatic causes (traumatic OHCA).
Patients who were transferred to non-NTUH-affiliated hospitals for post-resuscitation care.
Patients whose prognosis could not be determined from medical records.
Patients with incomplete, missing, or otherwise restricted medical records that limited data accessibility or review.